As a proud Blue Hen alum, a current staff member and a “Double Del” (a nickname used for couples who both earned their degrees from UD), Homecoming holds a very special place in my heart. Each fall, UD comes alive with spirit, nostalgia and excitement as students, alumni, families and friends gather to celebrate everything that makes this campus our home.

“Students get the special chance to engage with alumni and experience the Blue Hen spirit that thrives beyond daily campus life,” said Natalie Byrdsong, Assistant Director at the Center for Black Culture. “It’s a day filled with pride, laughter and celebration—a true welcome back to the ‘home’ where it all began!”

This year’s Homecoming is extra special—not just because of beloved traditions, but because UD will compete in Conference USA, marking an exciting new chapter in Blue Hen Athletics’ journey. 

“Homecoming is all about celebrating the start of a new era for Delaware Athletics,” said Austin Van Treuren, Assistant Director of Marketing & Engagement with UD Athletics. “We’ll be hosting a student-athlete alumni tailgate and the Blue Hen tailgate for alumni, while students can enjoy an upgraded tailgate lot featuring food, games, music, photo ops and more before kickoff.”

Festivities start three hours before the game, and attendees are also encouraged to take part in an exciting new activity dubbed the Flight Path.

“The Flight Path is a new tradition where fans, the marching band and spirit teams line up to welcome the football team as they arrive at the stadium,” said Van Treuren. “During the game, we’ll also recognize Blue Hen teams from milestone championship years through our Celebration of Champions.”

But Homecoming is far more than a football game—it’s a weekend where the entire campus feels like one big family. 

“Homecoming is a time to build a deeper connection with UD and consider your membership as a Blue Hen Forever,” said José-Luis Riera, Vice President for Student Life and Interim Chief Campus Culture & Engagement Officer. “That’s what I love about it. As a parent and as a senior leader, Homecoming is special because it offers a unique glimpse into the depth and breadth of a community that extends far beyond the physical boundaries of our campus.”
 

Homecoming Week Highlights
 

Spirit Day – Wednesday, November 5 (11 a.m.–2 p.m. on The Green)
Kick off Homecoming Week in true Blue Hen style! Show off your blue and gold, enjoy free food and games, and grab some UD spirit giveaways.

Class Reunions – Friday, November 7
Alumni from across the decades will return to campus for receptions and gatherings, reconnecting with lifelong friends and celebrating the bonds that make UD home.

Homecoming Day – Saturday, November 8
Get ready for an electric atmosphere as UD takes on Louisiana Tech at 3 p.m. Surrounding the stadium, you’ll find a robust lineup of tailgates and celebrations, including: 

• AAP Tailgate
• Blue Hen Professionals Brunch
• Mechanical Engineering Tailgate
• Student-Athlete Alumni Tailgate
• Blue Hen Tailgate
• National First Gen Tailgate
• CBC/BAO Tailgate
   

“The annual tailgate, proudly hosted by the Black Alumni Organization and the CBC, has grown tremendously in recent years—becoming one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year,” said Byrdsong. “It’s a joyful Homecoming where alumni return to reconnect with lifelong friends, reminisce about the moments that shaped their journeys and revisit the place that sparked their leadership and sense of community.”

As anticipation for Homecoming grows, many seniors are reflecting on their time at UD and the traditions that make this weekend so meaningful.

“I’m so excited for Homecoming,” said senior management information systems major Camille Jeannot. “As a senior, I’m feeling nostalgic knowing that graduation is around the corner.”

“I want to seize every opportunity to celebrate this special place I’ve called home for the past four years,” said senior operations management major Hala Alramadhani. “I’ll definitely be heading to the big game!”

Homecoming is more than a weekend—it’s a reunion, a reminder and a celebration of everything that makes UD feel like home. Whether you’re cheering from the stands, catching up with friends at a tailgate or admiring our stunning campus filled with history and pride, take a moment to reflect on what UD means to you.

After all, once a Blue Hen, always a Blue Hen.

For all event details and updates, visit udel.edu/alumni-friends/homecoming.